Ransomware is malware that disables your computer data until you pay a fee. This is done by encrypting the files so they are unreadable. There is no way to access your files without the “key” held by the hacker. Obviously this is serious as it has the potential to render all user data useless. There is now ransomware targeting the Mac.

Paying the ransom is a bad idea. There is no guarantee the data will be unlocked and you encourage this behavior. MacLab’s cloud backup cannot be encrypted by ransomware and is excellent protection. Another recommended level of protection is to have a firewall with advanced threat detection such as Kerio Control. Lastly, be sure routine maintenance is performed to keep up with security patches.

Many adapters you can get from Apple, MacLab, or elsewhere but beware low quality products that can damage your new computer. Here’s an article picking some specific adapters that might be helpful. If you have MacLab source the computer purchase we can work with you to ensure you have everything you need.

The MacBook Pros are here and they’re the lightest and thinnest to date. A Multi-Touch display called the Touch Bar replaces the function keys on all except the entry level model. Other features include Thunderbolt 3, faster graphics, Touch ID, a larger Force Touch trackpad and up to 2TB of SSD storage. You likely need adapters for your peripherals since all previously familiar USB and Thunderbolt connections have been replaced with Thunderbolt 3/USB-C ports. We’ll be happy to help sort out what’s needed. MacLab can recommend a configuration, price the new MacBook Pro for you or your office and perform the migration from your previous Mac.

We’ve raised our email storage limits without charge for all our hosting customers. In addition we now offer shared storage across each domain which lets you utilize more of your space.

If we provide Mac support for you and don’t host your email, consider adding mail for a full support solution. We can start fresh or transfer your messages. We have several options available including Kerio Cloud.

Online email archiving is available as an add-on. It’s a great way to keep a record of all incoming and outgoing mail in your organization and lighten the load on your email application.

On September 20th, Apple released MacOS 10.12, “Sierra.” This upgrade brings Siri’s voice recognition to the Mac, integrates further with iCloud and has a number of additional enhancements. We would like to stress caution before upgrading too soon. Your Mac should be checked for incompatible applications, data backed up and the health of the disk directory verified. Any upgrade can fail, rendering a computer unusable. Please check in with us for our recommendation. To be safe, have MacLab preflight your Mac and install the upgrade.